Donald was a very important railway centre on the Melbourne to Mildura line and was the crew change point. As a result, more than 60 railway families lived in Donald and greatly contributed to the town’s development.

When steam locomotives were replaced an old J-class engine was left at Donald on a disused side line. This became the start of the Train Park which was taken over by the Donald Lions Club as a local project and is now a much-used area for many different functions.

The original concept of the train park has grown. The Lions Club is actively developing a rolling stock museum, seeking out abandoned and vandalised carriages. With the help of the Men’s Shed and other community members these are restored to their former glory. The Taggerty Dining Car, a 1920s classic which ran regularly as part of the Vinelander between Melbourne and Mildura, is a shining example of this restoration.